Durham University

University

Primary Education

This course equips students to become primary school teachers (ages 5-11) and provides training for Key Stages 1 and 2. Successful completion of the course provides students with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), awarded by DfE and a PGCE (awarded by Durham University). Credits achieved during the PGCE year can also equate to the first year of Durham's MA in Education. The course aims to provide students with professional and academic training in preparation of their role as a primary teacher.

Entry requirements

Applicants must possess or expect to achieve. Applicants must also hold GCSE grade C or above in English and Mathematics; Primary applicants require a science subject at grade C or above as well. Applicants must also: Pass professional QTS Skills Tests; Undertake at least ten days of work experience in a UK mainstream school environment within the past three years.

Assessment methods

The Primary PGCE is designed to take around 1500 hours of student work, comprising: readings and preparation for teaching in school; teaching in schoolsteaching time in lectures and workshops; professional studies days; teaching and learning conference; follow-up readings after the taught element; independent study; assignment work. There are approximately 350 hours of university-based contact teaching time in all. In addition the supervised Directed Study module offers group and one-to-one contact time - students are assigned individual supervisors from within the School of Education staff who assist with devising a suitable topic for study.